Israel, Lebanon Begin Border Negotiations After US Mediation

The US and French embassies in Beirut announced a meeting of a delegation monitoring the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, hosted by the UN Interim Force in Lebanon. The discussions aimed at implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and addressing outstanding issues, leading to Israel's return of five Lebanese detainees. Concurrently, Israel and Lebanon have agreed to initiate negotiations over longstanding border disputes, with plans for trilateral working groups to tackle various issues, including the condition of Lebanese prisoners held by Israel. The talks are viewed as a test of new Lebanese government relations with Israel and a step towards stabilizing the ceasefire facilitated by the Biden administration. Additionally, Israel's Foreign Minister raised concerns about Iranian support for Hezbollah, stressing its implications for regional security. The UN Special Coordinator for Lebanon is actively engaging with Israeli officials to enhance security along the border and ensure compliance with resolution 1701.